What is the difference between SHAMS and SPC?

SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) covers a broad range of activities including media, consulting, trading, tech, and freelancer permits. SPC (Sharjah Publishing City) is a specialist zone for publishing, education, and knowledge industries. StrataLink advises the right fit based on your activity.

Can I set up in Sharjah remotely without visiting the UAE?

Yes. Both SHAMS and SPC are fully digital. No physical presence is required at any stage of the setup. StrataLink manages the entire process remotely.

Is a freelancer permit available in Sharjah free zones?

Yes. SHAMS offers a freelancer permit, which allows individuals to operate professionally without forming a company. It is one of the most cost-effective entry points into UAE business for solo founders.

How do SHAMS and SPC compare to Dubai free zones on cost?

Both are significantly more cost-effective than IFZA and Meydan. SHAMS and SPC are in the lowest cost tier for UAE free zone setup, making them popular choices for early-stage founders and freelancers.

Can SHAMS or SPC companies trade in the UAE mainland market?

Not directly. Like all free zone companies, SHAMS and SPC entities supply mainland customers through a registered distributor or agent. For direct UAE market access, a mainland license is required.

What is the corporate tax position for SHAMS and SPC companies?

Both are designated free zones. Qualifying entities on qualifying income are eligible for 0% UAE corporate tax. StrataLink's tax team advises on the correct structuring for compliance.

Sharjah Free Zones · SHAMS & SPC

Sharjah Free Zone Company Formation

Cost-effective UAE free zone formation. Media, tech, and consulting focus.

100% Foreign Ownership
Cost-Effective Packages
Media & Tech Focus

All Free Zones

100+

Companies Formed

10+

Global Markets Served

25+

Free Zones Covered

What are the Sharjah Free Zones for Business Setup?

Sharjah hosts two business-focused free zones: SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) for media, creative, consulting, and trading businesses (including a freelancer permit), and SPC (Sharjah Publishing City), the world's first publishing-dedicated free zone for media, education, and knowledge industries. Both offer 100% foreign ownership and fully digital remote setup.

SHAMS at a Glance

Cost-competitive free zone for media, creative, consulting, and service businesses. Freelancer permit available.

AuthoritySharjah Media City (SHAMS)

LocationSharjah, UAE

Ownership100% foreign

ShareholdersUp to 50

ActivitiesMedia, tech, consulting, trading, freelancer

Paid-Up CapitalNo minimum

SetupFully digital. 3–5 working days.

Why Choose SHAMS?

✓100% foreign ownership, no UAE national partner required
✓0% corporate tax on qualifying income
✓Up to 50 shareholders per company
✓Media, tech, consulting, and trading activities
✓Freelancer permit available, ideal for solo founders
✓Cost-effective vs Dubai free zones
✓Full repatriation of profits

License Types

Service License

Consulting, advisory, and professional services

Trading License

Import, export, and general trading

Media License

Digital media, publishing, and content creation

Freelancer Permit

Individual freelancers, no company required

Documents Required

Passport copy of all shareholders
Passport-size photograph
Proof of address (not older than 3 months)
Three proposed company name options
Description of business activity

How Sharjah Free Zone Setup Works

From first call to licensed and operational. StrataLink manages every step.

Choose Your Zone & Activity

StrataLink assesses your activity, visa needs, and budget. We recommend SHAMS or SPC based on your specific profile.

Documentation & Submission

We prepare your application, reserve your trade name, and submit directly to the free zone authority.

Licensed & Operational

Your license is issued digitally. StrataLink then assists with UAE bank account opening and visa applications.

Frequently Asked Questions: SHAMS & SPC Sharjah

Can't find your answer? Talk to our team.

Compare with other free zones

IFZA Dubai Meydan Dubai ANC & Ajman FZ All Free Zones

Free Consultation Available

Ready to Start Your Sharjah Free Zone Company?

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